We have combined 4th and 5th grades in order to enrich our sense of community and to offer a wider array of schedule options for these grades. Students participate in weekly tefilah (services) with our clergy and songleader, where prayers are joyful, festive, and meaningful. Tefilah continues in the classroom where students learn to read and chant the prayers as well as explore their meaning. Hebrew is taught using a variety of resources and technology.

Judaics and electives give students the opportunity to participate in an engaging and relevant learning environment across a variety of topics. They rotate class groupings throughout the day and throughout the year, allowing for increased movement and social interaction. All students will study Tikkun Olam (social justice) and Jewish values, Torah, Israel, and history, while electives will include an evolving list of options such as Jewish cooking, ethics, and art.

Even with the broader array of schedule options we are offering, we know that we may not be able to offer an option that fits your family’s schedule. Therefore we are launching an on-demand small-group option so that Jewish learning can take place at a time of your choosing. Here’s how it works … You can create your own group of five learners within the same grade level and choose your preferred time on a Wednesday or Thursday afternoon. Or, call our office to see if other families you may not know are also seeking to form a small group. Please be aware that capacity is limited so registration will be on a first come, first-served basis. In addition, the fee for small-group learning will be higher due to the personalized nature of this option.

Our optionality and curriculum promise to provide a meaningful experience for all of our students. For more information contact Michelle Gersh, Interim Director of Education, at 203-227-1656 x 332 or mgersh@tiwestport.org